We will continue to support the people of Iraq and Afghanistan as
they build a more hopeful future. We will not allow criminals or
terrorists to stop the advance of freedom.

Liberating the people of Iraq and Afghanistan from dictatorial
regimes was an essential step in the war on terror. The world is safer
today because Saddam Hussein and the Taliban are gone.

The citizens of these countries have survived decades of tyranny
and fear. Now, new leaders are emerging in Iraq in the form of medical
workers and teachers and citizens of all backgrounds who are coming
together to guide their country's future. They are moving toward
self-government and practicing their faith as they see fit.

We're now working with many nations to ensure that Afghanistan and
Iraq are never again sources of terror and danger for the rest of the
world.

After decades of oppression and brutality in Iraq and Afghanistan,
reconstruction is difficult, and freedom still has its enemies in both
of those countries.

Terrorists are targeting the very success and freedom we are
providing to the Iraqi people. Their desperate attacks on innocent
civilians will not intimidate us, or the brave Iraqis and Afghans who
are joining in their own defense and who are moving toward
self-government.

Our purpose is clear and certain: Iraq and Afghanistan will be
stable, independent nations and their people will live in freedom.